4 day itinerary for Tokyo

Itinerary

Tokyo is such a vibrant city with a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, and it’s great that you want to explore it at a relaxed pace. Here’s a delightful 4-day itinerary that includes parks and green spaces, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the city without feeling rushed. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore Central Tokyo

Morning:

• Ueno Park: Start your day at Ueno Park, one of Tokyo's most famous parks. Stroll through the park, visit the beautiful cherry blossoms (if in season), and check out the Tokyo National Museum or the Ueno Zoo if you’re interested. Grab a coffee at one of the park’s cafes.

Lunch:

• Ameyoko Market: Head over to the nearby Ameyoko Market for lunch. This bustling market has a variety of street food options. Try some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) or fresh sushi!

Afternoon:

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: After lunch, make your way to Shinjuku Gyoen. This expansive garden is a peaceful oasis in the city. Take a leisurely walk through the traditional Japanese garden, the French formal garden, and the English landscape garden. Perfect for some relaxation!

Evening:

• Dinner in Shinjuku: Explore the vibrant streets of Shinjuku for dinner. You can find everything from izakayas (Japanese pubs) to fine dining. Consider trying a local ramen shop for an authentic experience.

## Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Morning:

• Meiji Shrine: Start your day with a visit to the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a beautiful forested area. The walk to the shrine is peaceful, and you can enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive.

Lunch:

• Harajuku: After visiting the shrine, head to Harajuku for lunch. Check out the trendy cafes and grab a crepe from one of the famous crepe shops!

Afternoon:

• Yoyogi Park: Spend your afternoon in Yoyogi Park, right next to Meiji Shrine. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, or even join in on some local activities like tai chi or yoga.

Evening:

• Shibuya: Head to Shibuya for dinner. Explore the famous Shibuya Crossing and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for sushi, tempura, or something international.

## Day 3: Nature and History

Morning:

• Chidorigafuchi Park: Start your day with a visit to Chidorigafuchi Park, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. You can rent a boat and paddle around the moat for a unique view of the Imperial Palace.

Lunch:

• Tokyo Station Area: Head to the Tokyo Station area for lunch. There are many options in the underground shopping mall, including delicious bento boxes!

Afternoon:

• Imperial Palace East Gardens: After lunch, take a stroll through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer a glimpse into Japan’s history.

Evening:

• Ginza: Spend your evening in Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. Enjoy window shopping and then treat yourself to a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants. Consider trying kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) for a special experience.

## Day 4: Relax and Reflect

Morning:

• Shinjuku Ni-chome: Start your day in the Shinjuku Ni-chome area, known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café.

Lunch:

• Koenji: Head to Koenji for lunch. This area is known for its vintage shops and laid-back vibe. Grab a bite at a local eatery and explore the quirky shops.

Afternoon:

• Inokashira Park: Spend your afternoon at Inokashira Park in Kichijoji. It’s a lovely park with a pond where you can rent swan boats. There’s also a small zoo and beautiful walking paths.

Evening:

• Kichijoji: For your final dinner, explore the Kichijoji area. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and great food options. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at an izakaya or a cozy noodle shop.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on public transport.
• Weather: Check the weather and dress accordingly, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
• Pace: Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your energy levels. The beauty of a relaxed pace is that you can linger longer in places you love!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful time in Tokyo! Enjoy the parks, the food, and the unique culture. Safe travels! 🌸✈️